A THEATRE group is celebrating after four of its students secured places at top drama schools.

Applause Theatre School, based in Hurworth Grange, in Hurworth, near Darlington, provides drama, dance and singing classes to youngsters aged six to 20.

Four of its pupils have gained places in a number of celebrated drama schools, from New York to Guildford.

Hannah Davis, a 20-year-old student at New College Durham, secured places at Guildford, the Academy of Live and Recorded Arts (ALRA) Wigan, and Manchester Metropolitan University.

Charlotte Bradshaw, 19, who has been at Applause Theatre School for 16 years, won scholarships for the New York Film Academy and American Academy of Dramatic Arts.

Belt Salt, a 19-year-old student who has been at the school for two years, won a place at Bournemouth Arts University, while Sarah Hird, also 19, was celebrating after winning a scholarship for the New York Film Academy.

She has been at the theatre school for four years.

Principal Samantha Bradshaw said she was extremely proud of her students.

For more information visit applausetheatreschool.com